THE MISSION
To be a centre of excellence with an integrated research strategy in the field of circulatory medicine and to apply the results of scientific endeavour to advance standards of care in prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease which will reduce the expected increase in disease burden around the world.

THE VISION
Delivery of a strategic, multidisciplinary research programme spanning aetiological and prognostic questions in healthy subjects and patient populations.

Development and implementation of improved models of clinical care which change the principles and practices of disease prevention in the developed and developing world.

Provision of a first class clinical service for cardiovascular disease and diabetes which meets current standards, directs future scientific enquiry and helps to set national policy.

Communication of the results of research and new treatment strategies through publication and education of students, healthcare professionals and the general public worldwide.

Creation of an environment that develops individual careers in clinical and basic research related to circulatory disorders and diabetes.

DELIVERING THE VISION
Research and clinical practice in cardiovascular disease is by its very nature multidisciplinary. Expertise is needed across the spectrum of science and clinical management. The ICCH is a collaborative venture between personnel from the National Heart and Lung Institute division of Imperial College London and St Mary’s Hospital NHS Trust. It includes experts in the fields of vascular biology, pharmacology, diabetes, cardiology and clinical investigation through to epidemiology and the design and implementation of treatment strategies which optimises patient management and improves outcomes.

Cardiac disease including coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke is currently the leading cause of death worldwide. However over the next 20 years the global burden of disease due to CHD and stroke is expected to increase dramatically as the world develops. This expected increase in disease burden is not inevitable given that the associated risk factors are largely identified.

A major focus of the ICCH will therefore be to investigate the aetiology of cardiovascular disease and preventative strategies as they relate to different ethnic groups at various stages of the ecological transition.

The international status of the Centre is evident from the nature of the research programme and the strong collaborative links with other leading centres around the world. The educational programmes devised by the Centre represent another important contribution towards improving patient care.

In May 2004 the Centre moved into new premises in the Paddington Basin as part of the St Mary’s campus.

The activities of the Centre are strongly dependent on the generous support of national and international bodies, charitable trusts and industry. The Foundation for Circulatory Health is a registered charity, set up to facilitate and support the ICCH. New sponsors and supporters are invited to join the continuing expansion of this unique and powerful force in diminishing the global impact of cardiovascular disease and improving patient care.